Ahead of the September 21 Governorship election in Edo State, 192 councillors have endorsed the PDP candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and passed a vote of confidence on Governor Godwin Obaseki for his prompt payment of their salaries, allowances, and provision of vehicles for legislative leaders.
The councillors’ endorsement and commendation came in response to a publication by All Progressive Congress Deputy Chairman, Media and Publicity, Etsako East LGA, Mr. Agbukor Lucky, who claimed that the 192 Edo Councillors were nursing grievances against Governor Obaseki over unpaid salaries and allowances and had resolved to work against the PDP candidate.
Dismissing the allegations as “misleading, disgraceful, and a direct attack on democracy,” the leaders of the various legislative councils across the state described Governor Obaseki as “a great performer and an unusual leader who has made the welfare of councillors across the state his top priority.”
Solomon Oguma, Leader of the Etsako East Local Government Legislative Arm (Edo North), said, “Governor Obaseki is the best governor who gave vehicles to all legislative leaders across each local government at a time when no one expected it.”
Augustine Oleleayegbele, Legislative leader from Igueben local government council (Edo Central), described the APC as “jokers” and said, “We have no reason to vote against Asue Ighodalo because he has espoused his manifesto and is engaging meaningfully with Edo people.”
Omoruyi Igbinake, Ovia North East Local Government Area (Edo South), described the allegations as a “bloody lie and disgraceful” and a sign of the APC’s “desperation and frustration.”
He added, “Even in our dreams, we will vote for Asue Ighodalo.”
The councillors unanimously denied the “reckless and misleading publication” and accused the APC of moves to cause confusion and a breakdown of law and order in the state. They urged the Nigerian Police to investigate the intent of the author, saying, “The author of the aforementioned publication has consciously and clearly shown contempt for the legislators and should be arrested for it.”
In a communique, the councillors expressed confidence that Asue Ighodalo’s victory “would humble the Edo State APC and make them spectators in the September Governorship election.” They maintained,
“We are completely behind Asue Ighodalo and will deliver victory for him in all of our wards and units. Governor Godwin Obaseki is the best thing that has ever happened to Edo State, and we remain committed to him.”
